For Operators and Passengers

All ORV operators and passengers must wear a U.S. Department of Transportation–approved crash helmet and protective eyewear, except when:

The operator and passengers are wearing properly adjusted and fastened safety belts in an ORV equipped with a roof that meets or exceeds the standards for a crash helmet or…

The ORV is operated on a state-licensed game bird hunting preserve at a speed of 10 mph or less or…

The ORV operator is the invited guest or family member of the landowner or the landowner of the property where the ORV is being operated. This last exception does not apply to the following operators.

Operators less than 16 years of age

Operators 16 or 17 years of age, unless a parent has given consent for the operator to ride without a helmet

Operators participating in an organized ORV riding or racing event if the property owner receives consideration for use of the property

In 2012, Michigan passed a law giving some street-legal motorcycle operators the option of not wearing a helmet when operating on roadways. This law does not apply to ORVs, and helmets are still legally required to be worn by operators and passengers on ORVs.